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Washington prepares to punish charging-station parkers

April 15, 2013

Washington state legislators want to keep EV charge spots open to electric vehicles in need of a charge. Photo by Davey G. Johnson

We always feel a twinge of indignation when we see some gomer sans placard or appropriate plate parked in a spot reserved for the disabled. We're gripped by the same sort of indignation when we see a vehicle with an internal-combustion engine parked in a spot reserved for the charging of electric vehicles.

Though parking in a handicapped spot is punishable by fine, those who leave their vehicles in EV-charge spots are spared the hefty hand of justice. Washington state is aiming to do something about that. The state legislature approved a bill that would mete out a $124 fine to those who leave their non-EVs in charging spaces. What's more, EV drivers who leave their cars at the chargers without plugging in would also incur the wrath of parking enforcement officials.

The bill is now on the desk of Washington governor Jay Inslee, awaiting his signature.